Vehicle component

ABSTRACT

A component for a vehicle may comprise a roller rotatable relative to a base, a sheet coupled to the roller and movable between a retracted state and an extended state, a lock mechanism and a button. The lock mechanism may disengage to allow sheet movement and engage to block sheet movement. The lock mechanism may comprise an arm to engage the teeth on the roller to hold the sheet in the extended state. The button may comprise a latch to prevent engagement. The component may comprise an actuator to move the lock mechanism to block sheet movement and rotate the roller to provide tension in the sheet. The actuator may comprise a motor. The component may comprise a sensor and a controller for the actuator/motor. The component may comprise a cover or retractable table.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 17/182,292 titled “VEHICLE COMPONENT” filed Feb. 23, 2021 (nowU.S. Pat. No. 11,155,194), which is a continuation of PCT/InternationalPatent Application No. PCT/US2020/037422 titled “VEHICLE COMPONENT”filed Jun. 12, 2020, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/860,486 titled “VEHICLE COMPONENT” filed Jun. 12,2019.

The present application claims priority to and incorporates by referencein full the following patent applications: (a) U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/860,486 titled “VEHICLE COMPONENT” filed Jun. 12,2019; (b) PCT/International Patent Application No. PCT/US2020/037422titled “VEHICLE COMPONENT” filed Jun. 12, 2020; (c) U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 17/182,292 titled “VEHICLE COMPONENT” filed Feb.23, 2021 (now U.S. Pat. No. 11,155,194).

FIELD

The present invention relates to a vehicle component. The presentinvention also relates to a vehicle interior component configured toprovide a surface for use in a vehicle interior.

BACKGROUND

It is known to provide a vehicle component comprising a sheet coupled toa roller and configured to move between a retracted state and anextended state for use.

It would be advantageous to provide an improved vehicle componentcomprising a lock mechanism to block retraction of the sheet to providea taut surface of the sheet when extended.

It is known for a vehicle occupant to use a surface such as a tray invehicle interior. For example, it is known to provide a tray tablestructure that can be deployed from a stowed from a side compartmentsuch as in an armrest/console or from the back of a seat. It is alsoknown to provide a surface/sheet that can be extended/deployed from theside for use and retracted/withdrawn to the side for stowing when not inuse by the vehicle occupant.

It would be advantageous to provide an improved vehicle interiorcomponent configured to provide a surface/structure for use by a vehicleoccupant. It would be advantageous to provide a vehicle interiorcomponent configured to provide a surface/structure that is configuredto be stowed in a retracted/compact position when not in use and to beextended to form a rigid/semi-rigid structure for the surface (e.g.sheet, sheet material, etc.) for use by a vehicle occupant.

SUMMARY

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle comprising abase, a roller configured to rotate relative to the base, a sheetcoupled to the roller and configured to move between a retracted stateand an extended state, a lock mechanism and a button. The lock mechanismmay be configured for a disengaged state to allow movement of the sheetand an engaged state to block movement of the sheet. The roller maycomprise a set of teeth. The lock mechanism may comprise an armconfigured to engage the set of teeth to hold the sheet in the extendedstate. The button may be configured to engage the arm to provide a gapbetween the arm and the set of teeth. The button may comprise a latchconfigured to hold the button in an actuated position to preventengagement of the button with the arm. The sheet may comprise at leastone of (a) a fabric (b) a panel; (c) a textile; (d) a woven fabric; (e)a nylon material; (f) a mesh; (g) a polymer film laminated to a fabric;(h) a moisture resistant material. The sheet may comprise at least oneof (a) a bar; (b) an opening; (c) a pin; (d) a wire; (e) a tab; (f) aclosure configured to engage at least one of (1) a console; (2) a door;(3) a seat; (4) an armrest to hold the sheet in the extended position.The component may comprise an actuator; the actuator may be configuredto move the lock mechanism to the engaged state to block movement of thesheet. The actuator may be configured to rotate the roller to providetension in the sheet in the extended state. The component may compriseat least one of (a) a tonneau cover; (b) a cargo cover; (c) aretractable table.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle comprising abase, a roller configured to rotate relative to the base, a sheetcoupled to the roller and configured to move between a retracted stateand an extended state, a lock mechanism and a button. The lock mechanismmay be configured for a disengaged state to allow movement of the sheetand an engaged state to block movement of the sheet. The roller maycomprise a set of teeth. The lock mechanism may comprise an armconfigured to engage the set of teeth to hold the sheet in the extendedstate. The button may be configured to engage the arm to provide a gapbetween the arm and the set of teeth. The set of teeth may be configuredto prevent movement of the sheet toward the extended state and theretracted state. The button may comprise a latch configured to hold thebutton in an actuated position to prevent engagement of the button withthe arm. The lock mechanism may comprise a first spring, a tab, a secondspring and a latch. The first spring may be configured to move the tabto engage the arm and move the arm out of engagement with the set ofteeth and the second spring may be configured to move the arm to engagethe set of teeth in response to compression of the first spring. Thelatch may be configured to hold the first spring in a compressed stateto allow the second spring to hold the arm in engagement with the set ofteeth. The component may comprise a spring; the button may be configuredto move between a default position and an actuated position; the springmay be configured to bias the button in the default position.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle comprising abase, a roller configured to rotate relative to the base, a sheetcoupled to the roller and configured to move between a retracted stateand an extended state, a lock mechanism and an actuator. The lockmechanism may be configured for a disengaged state to allow movement ofthe sheet and an engaged state to block movement of the sheet. Theactuator may be configured to move the lock mechanism to the engagedstate to block movement of the sheet. The actuator may be configured torotate the roller to provide tension in the sheet in the extended state.The component may comprise a sensor; the sensor may be configured tosend a signal to move the actuator between the default position and theactuated position. The actuator may comprise at least one of (a) amotor; (b) a linear actuator. The component may be configured to beoperated by the steps of (a) moving the sheet from the retracted stateto the extended state with the lock mechanism disengaged; (b) holdingthe sheet held in the extended state; (c) moving the lock mechanism froma disengaged state to an engaged state to block movement of the sheet;(d) disengaging the lock mechanism; the roller may be configured to movethe sheet toward the retracted state. The component may comprise a latchto hold the sheet in the extended state; the extended state may comprisea tensioned state for the sheet in response to engagement of the latch.The component may comprise a sensor; the sensor may be configured tosend a signal to rotate the roller to provide tension in the sheet inresponse to engagement of the latch. The actuator may comprise a motor;the motor may be configured to rotate the roller to provide tension inthe sheet in response to engagement of the latch; the motor may beconfigured to rotate the roller to move the sheet toward the retractedstate in response to disengagement of the latch. The actuator maycomprise a motor configured to operate the roller and a controllerconfigured to operate the motor.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle comprising abase; a roller configured to rotate relative to the base; a sheetcoupled to the roller and configured to move between a retracted stateand an extended state; a lock mechanism; and a button. The lockmechanism may be configured for a disengaged state to allow movement ofthe sheet and an engaged state to block movement of the sheet. Thebutton may be configured to move between a default position and anactuated position. The lock mechanism may comprise a latch configured tohold the button in the actuated position. The button may be configuredto move the lock mechanism to the engaged state to block movement of thesheet. The component may comprise a spring; the spring may be configuredto move the button toward the default position. The component maycomprise a spring; the spring may be configured to bias the button indefault position. The sheet may comprise at least one of (a) a fabric(b) a panel; (c) a textile; (d) a woven fabric; (e) a nylon material;(f) a mesh; (g) a polymer film laminated to a fabric; (h) a moistureresistant material. The sheet may comprise at least one of (a) a bar;(b) an opening; (c) a pin; (d) a wire; (e) a tab; (f) a closureconfigured to engage at least one of (1) a console; (2) a door; (3) aseat; (4) an armrest to hold the sheet in the extended position. Thecomponent may comprise at least one of (a) a tonneau cover; (b) a cargocover; (c) a retractable table.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle comprising abase; a roller configured to rotate relative to the base; a sheetcoupled to the roller and configured to move between a retracted stateand an extended state; a lock mechanism; and a button. The lockmechanism may be configured for a disengaged state to allow movement ofthe sheet and an engaged state to block movement of the sheet. Theroller may comprise a set of teeth; the lock mechanism may comprise anarm configured to engage the set of teeth to hold the sheet in theextended state. The button may be configured to engage the arm toprovide a gap between the arm and the set of teeth. The button maycomprise a latch configured to hold the button in an actuated positionto prevent engagement of the button with the arm. The set of teeth maybe configured to prevent movement of the sheet toward the extended stateand the retracted state. The lock mechanism may comprise a springconfigured to bias the arm to engage the set of teeth to hold the sheetin the extended state. The component may comprise a tab configured tocompress the spring. The component may comprise a tab configured to holdthe arm and provide a gap between the arm and the set of teeth. The lockmechanism may comprise a first spring, a tab, a second spring and alatch. The first spring may be configured to move the tab to engage thearm and move the arm out of engagement with the set of teeth and whereinthe second spring may be configured to move the arm to engage the set ofteeth in response to compression of the first spring. The latch may beconfigured to hold the first spring in a compressed state to allow thesecond spring to hold the arm in engagement with the set of teeth.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle comprising abase; a roller configured to rotate relative to the base; a sheetcoupled to the roller and configured to move between a retracted stateand an extended state; a lock mechanism; and an actuator. The lockmechanism may be configured for a disengaged state to allow movement ofthe sheet and an engaged state to block movement of the sheet. Theactuator may be configured to move the lock mechanism to the engagedstate to block movement of the sheet. The actuator may be configured tomove the sheet from the extended state to a tensioned state in responseto movement of the sheet to the extended state. The actuator may beconfigured to rotate the roller to provide tension in the sheet in theextended state. The component may comprise a sensor; the sensor may beconfigured to send a signal to move the actuator between the defaultposition and the actuated position. The actuator may comprise at leastone of (a) a motor; (b) a linear actuator.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle; thecomponent may comprise a base, a roller configured to rotate relative tothe base, a sheet coupled to the roller and configured to move between aretracted state and an extended state and a lock mechanism; the lockmechanism may be configured for a disengaged state to allow movement ofthe sheet and an engaged state to block movement of the sheet. Thecomponent may comprise a button; the button may be configured to movebetween a default position and an actuated position. The button may beconfigured to move the lock mechanism to the engaged state to blockmovement of the sheet. The lock mechanism may comprise a latch; thelatch may be configured to hold the button in the actuated position. Thecomponent may comprise a spring; the spring may be configured to movethe button toward the default position. The component may comprise aspring; the spring may be configured to bias the button in defaultposition. The spring may comprise a compression spring. The roller maycomprise a set of teeth; the lock mechanism may comprise an arm. The armmay be configured to engage the set of teeth to hold the sheet in theextended state. The component may comprise a button configured to engagethe arm to provide a gap between the arm and the set of teeth. Thebutton may comprise a latch configured to hold the button in an actuatedposition to prevent engagement of the button with the arm. The set ofteeth may be configured to prevent movement of the sheet toward theextended state. The set of teeth may be configured to prevent movementof the sheet toward the extended state and the retracted state. The lockmechanism may comprise a spring configured to bias the arm to engage theset of teeth to hold the sheet in the extended state. The spring maycomprise a torsion spring. The component may comprise a tab configuredto compress the spring. The component may comprise a tab configured tohold the arm and provide a gap between the arm and the set of teeth. Thelock mechanism may comprise a first spring, a tab, a second spring and alatch. The first spring may be configured to move the tab to engage thearm and move the arm out of engagement with the set of teeth. The secondspring may be configured to move the arm to engage the set of teeth inresponse to compression of the first spring. the latch may be configuredto hold the first spring in a compressed state to allow the secondspring to hold the arm in engagement with the set of teeth. Thecomponent may comprise a spring configured to move the sheet from theextended state toward the retracted state. The roller may comprise atleast one of a spool; a reel; a tube; a cylinder; (e) a wheel. The sheetmay comprise at least one of a fabric a panel; a textile; a wovenfabric; (e) a nylon material; (f) a mesh; (g) a polymer film laminatedto a fabric; (h) a moisture resistant material. The sheet may compriseat least one of a bar; an opening; a pin; a wire; (e) a tab; (f) aclosure configured to engage at least one of (1) a console; (2) a door;(3) a seat; (4) an armrest to hold the sheet in the extended position.The component may comprise at least one of a tonneau cover; a cargocover; a retractable table. The component may comprise an actuator; theactuator may be configured to move between a default position and anactuated position. The actuator may be configured to move the lockmechanism to the engaged state to block movement of the sheet. Theactuator may be configured to move the sheet from the extended state toa tensioned state in response to movement of the sheet to the extendedstate. The actuator may be configured to rotate the roller to providetension in the sheet in the extended state. The component may comprise asensor; the sensor may be configured to send a signal to move theactuator between the default position and the actuated position. Theactuator may comprise a linear actuator.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle; thecomponent may comprise a base, a roller configured to rotate relative tothe base and a sheet coupled to the roller and configured to movebetween a retracted state and an extended state; the sheet may comprisea trailing edge coupled to the roller and a leading edge opposite thetrailing edge; the sheet may comprise a latch at the leading edge of thesheet configured to engage at least one of (1) a console; (2) a door;(3) a seat; (4) an armrest to hold the sheet in the extended state. Thesheet may be configured to move along a path between the retracted stateand the extended state; the latch may be configured to engage the atleast one of (1) a console; (2) a door; (3) a seat; (4) an armrest in adirection generally orthogonal to the path. The roller may be configuredto move the sheet from the extended state to a tensioned state inresponse to engagement of the latch. The component may comprise asensor; the sensor may be configured to send a signal to rotate theroller to provide tension in the sheet in response to engagement of thelatch. The component may comprise a motor; the motor may be configuredto rotate the roller to provide tension in the sheet in response toengagement of the latch. The motor may be configured to rotate theroller to move the sheet toward the retracted state in response todisengagement of the latch.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle; thecomponent may comprise a base, a roller configured to rotate relative tothe base and a sheet coupled to the roller and configured to movebetween a retracted state and an extended state; the roller may beconfigured to rotate to provide tension in the sheet in response tomovement of the sheet to the extended state. The component may compriseat least one of an actuator; a sensor; a motor; the at least one of theactuator; the sensor; the motor may be configured to rotate the rollerto move the sheet from the extended state to a tensioned state.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle configured toengage a base comprising an attachment point; the component may comprisea roller, a web comprising a catch configured to extend between theroller and the attachment point of the base, an actuator configured tooperate the roller; the catch of the web may be configured to engage theattachment point of the base when the web is fully extended; theactuator may be configured to retract the web onto the roller when thecatch of the web is disengaged from the attachment point of the base.The catch may comprise a latch. The actuator may be configured totension the web when the catch of the web is engaged with the attachmentpoint of the base. The actuator may be configured to retain tension inthe web when the catch of the web is engaged with the attachment pointof the base. The component may comprise a control configured to operatethe actuator to retract the web onto the roller when the catch of theweb is disengaged from the attachment point of the base. The attachmentpoint may comprise a recess. The latch may comprise a clip configured toengage the attachment point. The clip may comprise a spring clip. Theclip may be configured to engage the recess. The component may comprisea latch mechanism comprising the clip and a button configured to releasethe clip from the attachment point. The actuation system may comprise acontroller. The controller may be coupled to the control. The controlmay comprise a release. The latch mechanism may comprise the release.The release may comprise a release button. The web may comprise a sheet.The web may comprise a retractable sheet. The web may comprise anextendable sheet configured to provide a surface when the latch of theweb is engaged with the attachment point of the base. The surface may beconfigured to remain taut when the latch of the web is engaged with theattachment point of the base. The surface may be configured to remaintaut when a mass is placed on the surface and the latch of the web isengaged with the attachment point of the base. The surface may beconfigured to remain taut when a mass is placed on the surface byoperation of the roller to tension the web and the latch of the web isengaged with the attachment point of the base. The component maycomprise a seat to engage the latch when the web is fully retracted ontothe roller. The base may comprise the seat. The web when fully extendedmay be configured to extend from the seat of the base to the attachmentpoint of the base. The web when released may be configured to retractfrom the attachment point of the base into the seat of the base and ontothe roller. The control may be configured to operate the actuator sothat the web is retracted onto the roller when the controller isactuated. The latch may be configured to operate the actuator so thatthe web is retracted onto the roller when the latch is released andcontroller is actuated. The actuator may comprise a motor. The actuatormay comprise a linear actuator. The component may comprise an actuationsystem; the actuation system may comprise the actuator. The actuationsystem may comprise the actuator; the actuator may comprise a motorconfigured to operate the roller. The base may comprise the roller. Thebase may comprise the actuation system.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle; thecomponent may comprise a base comprising an attachment point, a roller,a web comprising a catch configured to extend between the roller and theattachment point of the base; an actuator configured to operate theroller; the catch of the web may be configured to engage the attachmentpoint of the base when the web is fully extended; the actuator may beconfigured to retract the web onto the roller when the catch of the webis disengaged from the attachment point of the base.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle configured toengage a base comprising an attachment point; the component may comprisea roller, a web comprising a catch configured to extend between theroller and the attachment point of the base, a motor configured tooperate the roller; the catch of the web may be configured to engage theattachment point of the base when the web is fully extended; the motormay be configured to tension the web onto the roller when the catch ofthe web is engaged with the attachment point of the base. The componentmay comprise the base. The motor may be operated by a controller. Themotor may comprise an actuator; and the actuator may be configured toretract the web onto the roller when the catch of the web is disengagedfrom the attachment point of the base. The web may be wound onto theroller when retracted. The web may be spooled onto the roller whenretracted and extended from the roller when extended.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle configured toengage a base comprising an attachment point; the component may comprisea roller, a web configured to extend between the roller and theattachment point of the base, a lock mechanism coupled to the roller;the lock mechanism may be configured to provide (1) a locked state torestrain movement of the roller and (2) a released state to allowmovement of the roller and the web. The lock mechanism may comprise abutton; the button may be configured to operate the lock mechanismbetween the locked state and the released state. The web may be woundonto the roller when retracted and extended from the roller whenextended. The web may comprise a catch configured to engage theattachment point of the base when the web is fully extended. The lockmechanism may comprise a gear coupled to the roller and a pawlconfigured to engage the gear to provide the locked state; the pawl isdisengaged from the gear to provide the released state. The gear maycomprise a sawtooth gear. The lock mechanism may comprise a springconfigured to urge the button to the release state. The lock mechanismmay comprise a latch configured to retain the button in the engagedstate. The latch may comprise a push-push latch. The component maycomprise the base. The web may be spooled onto the roller when retractedand extended from the roller when extended. The web may comprise a sheetconfigured to provide a surface when extended and engaged at theattachment point.

The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle comprising abase, a roller configured to rotate relative to the base, a sheetcoupled to the roller and configured to move between a retracted stateand an extended state, and a lock mechanism. The lock mechanism may beconfigured for a disengaged state to allow movement of the sheet and anengaged state to block movement of the sheet. The component may furthercomprise a button; the button may be configured to move between adefault position and an actuated position. The button may be configuredto move the lock mechanism to the engaged state to block movement of thesheet. The lock mechanism may comprise a latch; the latch may beconfigured to hold the button in the actuated position. The componentmay further comprise a spring; the spring may be configured to move thebutton toward the default position. The component may further comprise aspring; the spring may be configured to bias the button in the defaultposition; the spring may comprise a compression spring. The roller maycomprise a set of teeth; the lock mechanism may comprise an arm. The armmay be configured to engage the set of teeth to hold the sheet in theextended state. The component may further comprise a button configuredto engage the arm to provide a gap between the arm and the set of teeth.The button may comprise a latch configured to hold the button in anactuated position to prevent engagement of the button with the arm. Theset of teeth may be configured to prevent movement of the sheet towardthe extended state. The set of teeth may be configured to preventmovement of the sheet toward the extended state and the retracted state.The lock mechanism may comprise a spring configured to bias the arm toengage the set of teeth to hold the sheet in the extended state; thespring may comprise a torsion spring. The component may further comprisea tab configured to compress the spring. The component may furthercomprise a tab configured to hold the arm and provide a gap between thearm and the set of teeth. The lock mechanism further may comprise afirst spring, a tab, a second spring and a latch. The first spring maybe configured to move the tab to engage the arm and move the arm out ofengagement with the set of teeth. The second spring may be configured tomove the arm to engage the set of teeth in response to compression ofthe first spring. The latch may be configured to hold the first springin a compressed state to allow the second spring to hold the arm inengagement with the set of teeth. The component may further comprise aspring configured to move the sheet from the extended state toward theretracted state. The roller may comprise at least one of (a) a spool;(b) a reel; (c) a tube; (d) a cylinder; (e) a wheel. The sheet maycomprise at least one of (a) a fabric (b) a panel; (c) a textile; (d) awoven fabric; (e) a nylon material; (f) a mesh; (g) a polymer filmlaminated to a fabric; (h) a moisture resistant material. The sheet maycomprise at least one of (a) a bar; (b) an opening; (c) a pin; (d) awire; (e) a tab; (f) a closure configured to engage at least one of (1)a console; (2) a door; (3) a seat; (4) an armrest to hold the sheet inthe extended position. The component may comprise at least one of (a) atonneau cover; (b) a cargo cover; (c) a retractable table.

FIGURES

FIG. 1A is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 1B is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle showing a vehicleinterior according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic perspective views of a vehicle interiorcomponent according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2C is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle interior componentaccording to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 2D and 2E are schematic perspective views of a vehicle interiorcomponent according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 3A through 3D are schematic perspective views of a vehicleinterior component according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a schematic partial section view of a vehicle componentaccording to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are schematic partial section views of a vehiclecomponent according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of operation of a vehicle componentaccording to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic partial section views of a vehiclecomponent according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 8A through 8D are schematic partial section views of a vehiclecomponent according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of operation of a vehicle componentaccording to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 10A through 10D are schematic partial section views of a vehiclecomponent according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 11A through 11D are schematic partial section views of a vehiclecomponent according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 12A through 12C are schematic partial section views of a vehiclecomponent according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of operation of a vehicle componentaccording to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 14A through 14D are schematic partial section views of a vehiclecomponent according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 15A through 15D are schematic partial section views of a vehiclecomponent according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 16A through 16D are schematic partial section views of a vehiclecomponent according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 17A through 17D are schematic partial section views of a vehiclecomponent according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of operation of a vehicle componentaccording to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 19A through 19D are schematic partial section views of a vehiclecomponent according to an exemplary embodiment.

DESCRIPTION

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGS.1A-1B, a vehicle V may comprise an interior I including one or more doorpanels DP, one or more floor consoles FC and one or more seats ST.

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGS.2A-2E, 3A-3D, 4, 5A-5B, 6, 7A-7B, 8A-8D and 9 , a component C/1000/1000x for a vehicle may comprise: a base 100; a roller 300/300 x configuredto rotate relative to the base; a sheet 200 coupled to the roller andconfigured to move between a retracted state and an extended state; anda lock mechanism 400. The lock mechanism may be configured for adisengaged state to allow movement of the sheet and an engaged state toblock movement of the sheet. The component may comprise a button B/410;the button may be configured to move between a default position and anactuated position. The button may be configured to move the lockmechanism to the engaged state to block movement of the sheet. The lockmechanism may comprise a latch 422; the latch may be configured to holdthe button in the actuated position. The component may comprise a spring430; the spring may be configured to move the button toward the defaultposition. The component may comprise a spring 430; the spring may beconfigured to bias the button in default position. Spring 430 maycomprise a compression spring. The roller may comprise a set of teeth480 t; the lock mechanism may comprise an arm 470. The arm may beconfigured to engage the set of teeth to hold the sheet in the extendedstate. The component may comprise a button 410 configured to engage thearm to provide a gap between the arm and the set of teeth. The buttonmay comprise a latch 422 configured to hold the button in an actuatedposition to prevent engagement of the button with the arm. The set ofteeth may be configured to prevent movement of the sheet toward theextended state. The lock mechanism may comprise a spring 460 configuredto bias the arm to engage the set of teeth to hold the sheet in theextended state. Spring 460 may comprise a torsion spring. The componentmay comprise a tab 440 configured to compress spring 460. The componentmay comprise a tab 440 configured to hold the arm and provide a gapbetween the arm and the set of teeth. The lock mechanism may comprise afirst spring 430, a tab 440, a second spring 460 and a latch 422. Thefirst spring may be configured to move the tab to engage the arm andmove the arm out of engagement with the set of teeth. The second springmay be configured to move the arm to engage the set of teeth in responseto compression of the first spring. The latch may be configured to holdthe first spring in a compressed state to allow the second spring tohold the arm in engagement with the set of teeth. The component maycomprise a spring configured to move the sheet from the extended statetoward the retracted state. The roller may comprise at least one of (a)a spool; (b) a reel; (c) a tube; (d) a cylinder; (e) a wheel. The sheetmay comprise at least one of (a) a fabric (b) a panel; (c) a textile;(d) a woven fabric; (e) a nylon material; (f) a mesh; (g) a polymer filmlaminated to a fabric; (h) a moisture resistant material. The sheet maycomprise at least one of (a) a bar; (b) an opening; (c) a pin; (d) awire; (e) a tab; (f) a closure configured to engage at least one of (1)a console; (2) a door; (3) a seat; (4) an armrest to hold the sheet inthe extended position. The component may comprise at least one of (a) atonneau cover; (b) a cargo cover; (c) a retractable table. According toan exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGS. 2A-2D, 3A-3D,7A-7B, 8A-8D and 9 , the set of teeth of roller 300 x may be configuredto prevent movement of the sheet toward the extended state and theretracted state.

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGS.10A-10D, 11A-11D, 12A-12C and 13 , a component 2000 for a vehicle maycomprise a base; a roller configured to rotate relative to the base; asheet coupled to the roller and configured to move between a retractedstate and an extended state; and a latch/lock mechanism 500. The lockmechanism may be configured for a disengaged state to allow movement ofthe sheet and an engaged state to block movement of the sheet. Theroller may comprise at least one of (a) a spool; a reel; (c) a tube; (d)a cylinder; (e) a wheel. The sheet may comprise at least one of (a) afabric a panel; (c) a textile; (d) a woven fabric; (e) a nylon material;(f) a mesh; (g) a polymer film laminated to a fabric; (h) a moistureresistant material. The sheet may comprise at least one of (a) a bar; anopening; (c) a pin; (d) a wire; (e) a tab; (f) a closure configured toengage at least one of (1) a console; (2) a door; (3) a seat; (4) anarmrest to hold the sheet in the extended position. The component maycomprise at least one of (a) a tonneau cover; (b) a cargo cover; (c) aretractable table

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGS.10A-10D, 11A-11D, 12A-12C and 13 , a component 2000 for a vehicle maycomprise a base; a roller configured to rotate relative to the base; anda sheet 2200 coupled to the roller and configured to move between aretracted state and an extended state. The sheet may comprise a trailingedge coupled to the roller and a leading edge opposite the trailingedge. The sheet may comprise a latch/lock mechanism 500 at the leadingedge of the sheet configured to engage at least one of (1) a console;(2) a door; (3) a seat; (4) an armrest to hold the sheet in the extendedstate. The sheet may be configured to move along a path between theretracted state and the extended state; the latch may be configured toengage the at least one of (1) a console; (2) a door; (3) a seat; (4) anarmrest in a direction generally orthogonal to the path. The roller maybe configured to move the sheet from the extended state to a tensionedstate in response to engagement of the latch. The component may comprisea sensor; the sensor may be configured to send a signal to rotate theroller to provide tension in the sheet in response to engagement of thelatch. The component may comprise a motor; the motor may be configuredto rotate the roller to provide tension in the sheet in response toengagement of the latch. The motor may be configured to rotate theroller to move the sheet toward the retracted state in response todisengagement of the latch.

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGS.10A-10D, 11A-11D, 12A-12C and 13 , a component 2000 for a vehicle maycomprise a base; a roller configured to rotate relative to the base; anda sheet 2200 coupled to the roller and configured to move between aretracted state and an extended state. The roller may be configured torotate to provide tension in the sheet in response to movement of thesheet to the extended state. The component may comprise at least one of(a) a sensor; (b) a motor; the at least one of the sensor; the motor maybe configured to rotate the roller to move the sheet from the extendedstate to a tensioned state.

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGS.14A-14D, 15A-15D, 16A-16D, 17A-17D and 18 , a component 3000 for avehicle may comprise a base; a roller configured to rotate relative tothe base; a sheet 3300 coupled to the roller and configured to movebetween a retracted state and an extended state; and a latch/lockmechanism 500. The lock mechanism may be configured for a disengagedstate to allow movement of the sheet and an engaged state to blockmovement of the sheet. The roller may comprise a set of teeth; the lockmechanism may comprise an arm. The arm may be configured to engage theset of teeth to hold the sheet in the extended state. The set of teethmay be configured to prevent movement of the sheet toward the extendedstate. The component may comprise a spring configured to move the sheetfrom the extended state toward the retracted state. The roller maycomprise at least one of (a) a spool; (b) a reel; (c) a tube; (d) acylinder; (e) a wheel. The sheet may comprise at least one of (a) afabric (b) a panel; a textile; (d) a woven fabric; (e) a nylon material;(f) a mesh; (g) a polymer film laminated to a fabric; (h) a moistureresistant material. The sheet may comprise at least one of (a) a bar;(b) an opening; (c) a pin; (d) a wire; (e) a tab; (f) a closureconfigured to engage at least one of (1) a console; (2) a door; (3) aseat; (4) an armrest to hold the sheet in the extended position. Thecomponent may comprise at least one of (a) a tonneau cover; (b) a cargocover; (c) a retractable table. The component may comprise an actuator600; the actuator may be configured to move between a default positionand an actuated position. The actuator may be configured to move thelock mechanism to the engaged state to block movement of the sheet. Theactuator may be configured to move the sheet from the extended state toa tensioned state in response to movement of the sheet to the extendedstate. The actuator may be configured to rotate the roller to providetension in the sheet in the extended state. The component may comprise asensor; the sensor may be configured to send a signal to move theactuator between the default position and the actuated position. Theactuator may comprise a linear actuator.

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGS.14A-14D, 15A-15D, 16A-16D, 17A-17D and 18 , a component 3000 for avehicle may comprise a base; a roller configured to rotate relative tothe base; and a sheet 3200 coupled to the roller and configured to movebetween a retracted state and an extended state. The sheet may comprisea trailing edge coupled to the roller and a leading edge opposite thetrailing edge. The sheet may comprise a latch/lock mechanism 500 at theleading edge of the sheet configured to engage at least one of (1) aconsole; (2) a door; (3) a seat; (4) an armrest to hold the sheet in theextended state. The sheet may be configured to move along a path betweenthe retracted state and the extended state; the latch may be configuredto engage the at least one of (1) a console; (2) a door; (3) a seat; (4)an armrest in a direction generally orthogonal to the path. The rollermay be configured to move the sheet from the extended state to atensioned state in response to engagement of the latch. The componentmay comprise a sensor; the sensor may be configured to send a signal torotate the roller to provide tension in the sheet in response toengagement of the latch.

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGS.14A-14D, 15A-15D, 16A-16D, 17A-17D and 18 , a component 3000 for avehicle may comprise a base; a roller configured to rotate relative tothe base; and a sheet 3200 coupled to the roller and configured to movebetween a retracted state and an extended state. The roller may beconfigured to rotate to provide tension in the sheet in response tomovement of the sheet to the extended state. The component may compriseat least one of (a) an actuator 600; (b) a sensor; the at least one ofthe actuator; the sensor may be configured to rotate the roller to movethe sheet from the extended state to a tensioned state.

As indicated schematically in FIG. 8 , operation of a vehicle componentmay comprise the steps of moving a sheet from a retracted state to anextended state with a lock mechanism disengaged; holding the sheet heldin the extended state; moving the lock mechanism from a disengaged stateto an engaged state to block movement of the sheet; disengaging the lockmechanism; a roller moving the sheet toward the retracted state.

As indicated schematically in FIG. 9 , operation of a vehicle componentmay comprise the steps of moving a sheet from a retracted state to anextended state with a lock mechanism disengaged; holding the sheet inthe extended state; moving the lock mechanism to an engaged state toblock movement of the sheet; moving the lock mechanism from the engagedstate to the disengaged state to allow movement of the sheet; a rollermoving the sheet to the retracted state.

As indicated schematically in FIG. 13 , operation of a vehicle componentmay comprise the steps of moving a sheet moved from a retracted state toan extended state; actuating a button to block movement of the sheet; amotor rotating a roller to tension the sheet; actuating the button todisengage/allow movement of the sheet; the motor rotating the roller tospool the sheet.

As indicated schematically in FIG. 18 , operation of a vehicle componentmay comprise the steps of moving a sheet moved from a retracted state toan extended state; actuating an actuator to block movement of the sheet;the actuator rotating a roller to tension the sheet; actuating theactuator to disengage/allow movement of the sheet.

Exemplary Embodiments—A

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGS.2A-2E, 3A-3D, 4, 5A, 5B, 7A and 7B, a component C/1000/1000 x for avehicle may comprise a base 100, a roller 300/300 x configured to rotaterelative to base 100, a sheet S/200 coupled to roller 300/300 x andconfigured to move between a retracted state (as shown schematically inFIG. 3A) and an extended state (as shown schematically in FIGS. 2A-2Eand 3B-3D), and a lock mechanism 400. Lock mechanism 400 may beconfigured for a disengaged state (as shown schematically in FIGS. 4, 5Aand 7A) to allow movement of sheet 200 and an engaged state (as shownschematically in FIGS. 3D, 5B and 7B) to block movement of sheet 200.Component C/1000/1000 x may further comprise a button B/410; button 410may be configured to move between a default position (as shownschematically in FIGS. 4, 5A and 7A) and an actuated position (as shownschematically in FIGS. 3D, 5B and 7B). Button 410 may be configured tomove lock mechanism 400 to the engaged state to block movement of sheet200. Lock mechanism 400 may comprise a latch 422; latch 422 may beconfigured to hold button 410 in the actuated position. Component1000/1000 x may further comprise a spring/first spring 430; spring 430may be configured to move button 410 toward the default position.Component 1000/1000 x may further comprise a spring/first spring 430;spring 430 may be configured to bias button 410 in the default position;spring 430 may comprise a compression spring. Roller 300/300 x maycomprise a set of teeth 480 t; lock mechanism 400 may comprise an arm470. Arm 470 may be configured to engage set of teeth 480 t to holdsheet 200 in the extended state (as shown schematically in FIGS. 5B and7B). Component 1000/1000 x may further comprise a button 410 configuredto engage arm 470 to provide a gap G between arm 470 and set of teeth480 t. Button 410 may comprise a latch 422 configured to hold button 410in an actuated position to prevent engagement of button 410 with arm470. Set of teeth 480 t of roller 300 may be configured to preventmovement of sheet 200 toward the extended state. Set of teeth 480 t ofroller 300 x may be configured to prevent movement of sheet 200 towardthe extended state and the retracted state. Lock mechanism 400 maycomprise a spring/second spring 460 configured to bias arm 470 to engageset of teeth 480 t to hold sheet 200 in the extended state; spring 460may comprise a torsion spring. Component 1000/1000 x may furthercomprise a tab 440 configured to compress spring 460. Component1000/1000 x may further comprise a tab 440 configured to hold arm 470and provide a gap G between arm 470 and set of teeth 480 t. Lockmechanism 400 further may comprise a first spring 430, a tab 440, asecond spring 460 and a latch 422. First spring 430 may be configured tomove tab 440 to engage arm 470 and move arm 470 out of engagement withset of teeth 480 t. Second spring 460 may be configured to move arm 470to engage set of teeth 480 t in response to compression of first spring430. Latch 422 may be configured to hold first spring 430 in acompressed state to allow second spring 460 to hold arm 470 inengagement with set of teeth 480 t. Component 1000/1000 x may furthercomprise a spring configured to move sheet 200 from the extended statetoward the retracted state. Roller 300/300 x may comprise at least oneof (a) a spool; (b) a reel; (c) a tube; (d) a cylinder; (e) a wheel.Sheet 200 may comprise at least one of (a) a fabric (b) a panel; (c) atextile; (d) a woven fabric; (e) a nylon material; (f) a mesh; (g) apolymer film laminated to a fabric; (h) a moisture resistant material.Sheet 200 may comprise at least one of (a) a bar; (b) an opening; (c) apin; (d) a wire; (e) a tab 440; (f) a closure configured to engage atleast one of (1) a console; (2) a door; (3) a seat; (4) an armrest tohold sheet 200 in the extended position. Component 1000/1000 x maycomprise at least one of (a) a tonneau cover; (b) a cargo cover; (c) aretractable table.

According to an exemplary embodiment, sheet 200 may comprise at leastone of (a) a self-cleaning material; (b) a dust-repellant material; (c)an anti-skid material. According to an exemplary embodiment, a materialof sheet 200 may comprise a product commercially available as a PVCMembrane from Pfeifer FabriTec of Memmingen, Germany and Dallas, Tex.,USA or may comprise anti-dust plastic additives such as commerciallyavailable under the trade name IRGASTAT from BASF GmbH of Lamperheim,Germany (BASF Corp. of Florham Park, N.J., USA) or may comprise a foamor polyester anti-slip fabric such as commercially available from TheRubber Company of Hampshire, UK or as commercially available non-slipfabric type H4643 and/or H4644 from Heskins Ltd. of Lancashire, UK.According to an exemplary embodiment, a material of sheet 200 maycomprise a surface treatment applied to provide at least one of (a)self-cleaning properties; (b) dust-repellency; (c) increased friction.According to an exemplary embodiment, the surface treatment applied tothe material of sheet 200 may comprise a repellent coating for fabric ofa type commercially available from Starshield Technologies Private Ltd.of Uttar Pradesh, India; a TEFLON textile finish such as commerciallyavailable from The Chemours Company of Wilmington, Del., USA may beapplied to the sheet material as a treatment; a slip resistantcoating/spray such as commercially available from No Skidding ProductsInc. of Toronto, Ontario, Canada may be applied to the sheet material asa treatment.

As indicated schematically according to an exemplary embodiment, theflexible sheet material shown as sheet 200 may be configured to providea surface/table rigidified by lock mechanism 400 for the vehiclecomponent when in the extended position. See FIGS. 3D, 5B and 7B.

As indicated schematically in FIGS. 3A-3D, sheet 200 may be deployedfrom roller 300/300 x as a flexible form/sheet configured to rigidifyinto a rigid/semi-rigid frame/form to provide a surface for use.Actuation/depression of button 410 may engage lock mechanism 400 toprovide rigidity to sheet 200 as indicated schematically in FIGS. 3D, 5Band 5B. Subsequent actuation/depression of button 410 may disengage lockmechanism 400 to provide a flexible form for sheet 200 to return to thestowed/retracted position on roller 300/300 x.

Exemplary Embodiments—B

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGS.2A-2E, 3A-3D, 9, 10A-10D, 11A-11D, 12A-12C, 13, 14A-14D, 15A-15D, 18 and19 , a component C (also shown as component 2000/3000) for avehicle/vehicle interior (V/I) may be configured for a base comprisingan attachment point; the component may comprise a roller, a web shown assheet S comprising a catch (shown as latch 500) configured to extendbetween the roller and the attachment point of the base, an actuatorconfigured to operate the roller; the catch of the web may be configuredto engage the attachment point of the base when the web is fullyextended; the actuator may be configured to retract the web onto theroller when the catch of the web is disengaged from the attachment pointof the base. See also FIGS. 10A-10D, 11A-11D, 13, 14A-14D, 15A-15D. Thecatch may comprise a latch. The actuator may be configured to tensionthe web when the catch of the web is engaged with the attachment pointof the base. The actuator may be configured to retain tension in the webwhen the catch of the web is engaged with the attachment point of thebase. The component may comprise a control configured to operate theactuator to retract the web onto the roller when the catch of the web isdisengaged from the attachment point of the base. The attachment pointmay comprise a recess. The latch may comprise a clip configured toengage the attachment point. The clip may comprise a spring clip. Theclip may be configured to engage the recess. The component may comprisea latch mechanism comprising the clip and a button configured to releasethe clip from the attachment point. The actuation system may comprise acontroller. The controller may be coupled to the control. The controlmay comprise a release. The latch mechanism may comprise the release.The release may comprise a release button. The web may comprise a sheet.The web may comprise a retractable sheet. The web may comprise anextendable sheet configured to provide a surface when the latch of theweb is engaged with the attachment point of the base.

According to an exemplary embodiment shown schematically, the web/sheetproviding the surface may be configured to remain taut when the latch ofthe web is engaged with the attachment point of the base. See FIGS.15A-15D. The surface may be configured to remain taut when a mass isplaced on the surface and the latch of the web is engaged with theattachment point of the base. See FIGS. 19A-19D. The surface may beconfigured to remain taut when a mass is placed on the surface byoperation of the roller to tension the web and the latch of the web isengaged with the attachment point of the base.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the component may comprise a seatto engage the latch when the web is fully retracted onto the roller. Thebase may comprise the seat. The web when fully extended may beconfigured to extend from the seat of the base to the attachment pointof the base. The web when released may be configured to retract from theattachment point of the base into the seat of the base and onto theroller. The control may be configured to operate the actuator so thatthe web is retracted onto the roller when the controller is actuated.The latch may be configured to operate the actuator so that the web isretracted onto the roller when the latch is released and controller isactuated. The actuator may comprise a motor. The actuator may comprise alinear actuator. The component may comprise an actuation system; theactuation system may comprise the actuator. The actuation system maycomprise the actuator; the actuator may comprise a motor configured tooperate the roller. The base may comprise the roller. The base maycomprise the actuation system.

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGS. 2C,3A-3D, 9, 10A-10D, 11A-11D, 12A-12C, 13, 14A-14D, 15A-15D, 18 and 19 , acomponent for a vehicle/vehicle interior may comprise a base comprisingan attachment point, a roller, a web shown as sheet S comprising a catchconfigured to extend between the roller and the attachment point of thebase; an actuator configured to operate the roller; the catch of the webmay be configured to engage the attachment point of the base when theweb is fully extended; the actuator may be configured to retract the webonto the roller when the catch of the web is disengaged from theattachment point of the base. See e.g. FIGS. 16A-16D and 17A-17D.

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGS. 9,10A-10D, 11A-11D, 12A-12C, 13, 14A-14D, 15A-15D, 18 and 19 , a componentfora vehicle/vehicle interior be configured for a base comprising anattachment point; the component may comprise a roller, a web shown assheet S comprising a catch configured to extend between the roller andthe attachment point of the base, a motor configured to operate theroller; the catch of the web may be configured to engage the attachmentpoint of the base when the web is fully extended; the motor may beconfigured to tension the web onto the roller when the catch of the webis engaged with the attachment point of the base. The component maycomprise the base. See e.g. FIGS. 2C and 3A-3D. The motor may beoperated by a controller. See e.g. FIGS. 10A-10D, 11A-11D, 13, 14A-14D,15A-15D. The motor may comprise an actuator; and the actuator may beconfigured to retract the web onto the roller when the catch of the webis disengaged from the attachment point of the base. The web may bewound onto the roller when retracted. The web may be spooled onto theroller when retracted and extended from the roller when extended. Seee.g. FIGS. 16A-16D and 17A-17D.

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGS. 4,5A-5B, 6, 7A-7B, 8A-8D and 9 , a component C (also shown as component1000/1000 x) for a vehicle/vehicle interior may be configured for a basecomprising an attachment point; the component may comprise a roller(300/300 x), a web shown as sheet S configured to extend between theroller and the attachment point of the base, a lock mechanism (400)coupled to the roller; the lock mechanism may be configured to provide(1) a locked state to restrain movement of the roller and (2) a releasedstate to allow movement of the roller and the web. See also FIGS. 3A-3D,4, 5A-5B, 7A-7B and 8A-8D. The lock mechanism may comprise a button(shown as button B); the button may be configured to operate the lockmechanism between the locked state and the released state. See alsoFIGS. 5A-5B, 7A-7B and 8A-8D. The web may be wound onto the roller whenretracted and extended from the roller when extended. The web maycomprise a catch configured to engage the attachment point of the basewhen the web is fully extended. The lock mechanism may comprise a gearcoupled to the roller and a pawl configured to engage the gear toprovide the locked state; the pawl is disengaged from the gear toprovide the released state. The gear may comprise a sawtooth gear. Thelock mechanism may comprise a spring configured to urge the button tothe release state. The lock mechanism may comprise a latch configured toretain the button in the engaged state. The latch may comprise apush-push latch. The component may comprise the base. The web may bespooled onto the roller when retracted and extended from the roller whenextended. The web may comprise a sheet configured to provide a surfacewhen extended and engaged at the attachment point. See also FIGS. 2A-2E,3A-3D, 6 and 9 .

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown schematically in FIGS.2A-2E, 3A-3D, 4, 5A, 5B, 7A and 7B, a component C/1000/1000 x for avehicle may comprise a base 100, a roller 300/300 x configured to rotaterelative to base 100, a sheet S/200 coupled to roller 300/300 x andconfigured to move between a retracted state (as shown schematically inFIG. 3A) and an extended state (as shown schematically in FIGS. 2A-2Eand 3B-3D), and a lock mechanism 400. Lock mechanism 400 may beconfigured for a disengaged state (as shown schematically in FIGS. 4, 5Aand 7A).

The component comprising a lock mechanism may be configured to blockretraction of the web/sheet to provide a taut surface of the sheet whenextended. The component may provide for a vehicle occupant to use asurface such as a tray in a vehicle interior (e.g. a tray/tablestructure that can be deployed from a stowed from a side compartmentsuch as in an armrest/console or from the back of a seat, etc.). Theweb/surface/sheet that may be extended/deployed from the side for useand retracted/withdrawn to the side for stowing when not in use by thevehicle occupant. The component may be configured to provide aweb/surface/structure for use by a vehicle occupant and/or to provide asurface/structure that is configured to be stowed in a retracted/compactposition when not in use and to be extended to form a rigid/semi-rigidstructure for the surface (e.g. web, sheet, sheet material, etc.) foruse by a vehicle occupant.

It is important to note that the present inventions (e.g. inventiveconcepts, etc.) have been described in the specification and/orillustrated in the FIGURES of the present patent document according toexemplary embodiments; the embodiments of the present inventions arepresented by way of example only and are not intended as a limitation onthe scope of the present inventions. The construction and/or arrangementof the elements of the inventive concepts embodied in the presentinventions as described in the specification and/or illustrated in theFIGURES is illustrative only. Although exemplary embodiments of thepresent inventions have been described in detail in the present patentdocument, a person of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciatethat equivalents, modifications, variations, etc. of the subject matterof the exemplary embodiments and alternative embodiments are possibleand contemplated as being within the scope of the present inventions;all such subject matter (e.g. modifications, variations, embodiments,combinations, equivalents, etc.) is intended to be included within thescope of the present inventions. It should also be noted thatvarious/other modifications, variations, substitutions, equivalents,changes, omissions, etc. may be made in the configuration and/orarrangement of the exemplary embodiments (e.g. in concept, design,structure, apparatus, form, assembly, construction, means, function,system, process/method, steps, sequence of process/method steps,operation, operating conditions, performance, materials, composition,combination, etc.) without departing from the scope of the presentinventions; all such subject matter (e.g. modifications, variations,embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc.) is intended to be includedwithin the scope of the present inventions. The scope of the presentinventions is not intended to be limited to the subject matter (e.g.details, structure, functions, materials, acts, steps, sequence, system,result, etc.) described in the specification and/or illustrated in theFIGURES of the present patent document. It is contemplated that theclaims of the present patent document will be construed properly tocover the complete scope of the subject matter of the present inventions(e.g. including any and all such modifications, variations, embodiments,combinations, equivalents, etc.); it is to be understood that theterminology used in the present patent document is for the purpose ofproviding a description of the subject matter of the exemplaryembodiments rather than as a limitation on the scope of the presentinventions.

It is also important to note that according to exemplary embodiments thepresent inventions may comprise conventional technology (e.g. asimplemented and/or integrated in exemplary embodiments, modifications,variations, combinations, equivalents, etc.) or may comprise any otherapplicable technology (present and/or future) with suitability and/orcapability to perform the functions and processes/operations describedin the specification and/or illustrated in the FIGURES. All suchtechnology (e.g. as implemented in embodiments, modifications,variations, combinations, equivalents, etc.) is considered to be withinthe scope of the present inventions of the present patent document.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A component for a vehicle comprising: (a) abase; (b) a roller configured to rotate relative to the base; (c) asheet coupled to the roller and configured to move between a retractedstate and an extended state; (d) a lock mechanism; and (e) a button;wherein the lock mechanism is configured for a disengaged state to allowmovement of the sheet and an engaged state to block movement of thesheet; wherein the roller comprises a set of teeth; wherein the lockmechanism comprises an arm configured to engage the set of teeth to holdthe sheet in the extended state; wherein the button is configured toengage the arm to provide a gap between the arm and the set of teeth;wherein the button comprises a latch configured to hold the button in anactuated position to prevent engagement of the button with the arm. 2.The component of claim 1 wherein the sheet comprises at least one of (a)a fabric (b) a panel; (c) a textile; (d) a woven fabric; (e) a nylonmaterial; (f) a mesh; (g) a polymer film laminated to a fabric; (h) amoisture resistant material.
 3. The component of claim 1 wherein thesheet comprises at least one of (a) a bar; (b) an opening; (c) a pin;(d) a wire; (e) a tab; (f) a closure configured to engage at least oneof (1) a console; (2) a door; (3) a seat; (4) an armrest to hold thesheet in the extended position.
 4. The component of claim 1 furthercomprising an actuator; wherein the actuator is configured to move thelock mechanism to the engaged state to block movement of the sheet. 5.The component of claim 4 wherein the actuator is configured to rotatethe roller to provide tension in the sheet in the extended state.
 6. Thecomponent of claim 1 wherein the component comprises at least one of (a)a tonneau cover; (b) a cargo cover; (c) a retractable table.
 7. Acomponent for a vehicle comprising: (a) a base; (b) a roller configuredto rotate relative to the base; (c) a sheet coupled to the roller andconfigured to move between a retracted state and an extended state; (d)a lock mechanism; and (e) a button; wherein the lock mechanism isconfigured for a disengaged state to allow movement of the sheet and anengaged state to block movement of the sheet; wherein the rollercomprises a set of teeth; wherein the lock mechanism comprises an armconfigured to engage the set of teeth to hold the sheet in the extendedstate; wherein the button is configured to engage the arm to provide agap between the arm and the set of teeth; wherein the set of teeth isconfigured to prevent movement of the sheet toward the extended stateand the retracted state.
 8. The component of claim 7 wherein the buttoncomprises a latch configured to hold the button in an actuated positionto prevent engagement of the button with the arm.
 9. The component ofclaim 7 wherein the lock mechanism further comprises a first spring, atab, a second spring and a latch.
 10. The component of claim 9 whereinthe first spring is configured to move the tab to engage the arm andmove the arm out of engagement with the set of teeth and wherein thesecond spring is configured to move the arm to engage the set of teethin response to compression of the first spring.
 11. The component ofclaim 9 wherein the latch is configured to hold the first spring in acompressed state to allow the second spring to hold the arm inengagement with the set of teeth.
 12. The component of claim 7 furthercomprising a spring; wherein the button is configured to move between adefault position and an actuated position; wherein the spring isconfigured to bias the button in the default position.
 13. A componentfor a vehicle comprising: (a) a base; (b) a roller configured to rotaterelative to the base; (c) a sheet coupled to the roller and configuredto move between a retracted state and an extended state; (d) a lockmechanism; and (e) an actuator; wherein the lock mechanism is configuredfor a disengaged state to allow movement of the sheet and an engagedstate to block movement of the sheet; wherein the actuator is configuredto move the lock mechanism to the engaged state to block movement of thesheet; wherein the actuator is configured to rotate the roller toprovide tension in the sheet in the extended state.
 14. The component ofclaim 13 further comprising a sensor; wherein the sensor is configuredto send a signal to move the actuator between the default position andthe actuated position.
 15. The component of claim 13 wherein theactuator comprises at least one of (a) a motor; (b) a linear actuator.16. The component of claim 13 configured to be operated by the steps of(a) moving the sheet from the retracted state to the extended state withthe lock mechanism disengaged; (b) holding the sheet held in theextended state; (c) moving the lock mechanism from a disengaged state toan engaged state to block movement of the sheet; (d) disengaging thelock mechanism; wherein the roller is configured to move the sheettoward the retracted state.
 17. The component of claim 13 furthercomprising a latch to hold the sheet in the extended state; wherein theextended state comprises a tensioned state for the sheet in response toengagement of the latch.
 18. The component of claim 17 furthercomprising a sensor; wherein the sensor is configured to send a signalto rotate the roller to provide tension in the sheet in response toengagement of the latch.
 19. The component of claim 17 wherein theactuator comprises a motor; wherein the motor is configured to rotatethe roller to provide tension in the sheet in response to engagement ofthe latch; wherein the motor is configured to rotate the roller to movethe sheet toward the retracted state in response to disengagement of thelatch.
 20. The component of claim 13 wherein the actuator comprises amotor configured to operate the roller and a controller configured tooperate the motor.